FRANCE

France

France officially the French Republic, is a state in Western Europe with several overseas territories and islands located on other continents and in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Metropolitan France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic Ocean. It is often referred to as l’Hexagone  because of the geometric shape of its territory. It is bordered (clockwise starting from the northeast) by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Monaco; with Spain and Andorra to the south. France is linked to the United Kingdom by the Channel Tunnel, which passes underneath the English Channel. In addition to these borders on the European continent France has land borders with Suriname and Brazil through French Guiana, as well as with the Netherlands through the Collectivity of Saint Martin. It is the largest west-European country and it possesses the second-largest Exclusive Economic Zone in the world, covering 11,035,000 km2 (4,260,000 mi2), just behind that of the United States (11,351,000 km2 / 4,383,000 mi2).
Over the past 500 years, France has been a major power with strong cultural, economic, military and political influence in Europe and in the world. During the 17th and 18th centuries, France colonised great parts of North America and South Asia; during the 19th and early 20th centuries, France built the second largest empire of the time, including large portions of North, West and Central Africa, Southeast Asia, and many Caribbean and Pacific Islands.
France is a unitary semi-presidential republic with its main ideals expressed in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. The French Republic is defined as indivisible, secular, democratic and social by its constitution. France is one of the world's most developed countries and possesses the world's fifth largest and Europe's second largest economy by nominal GDP. France is the wealthiest European (and the world's 4th) nation in aggregate household wealth. France enjoys a high standard of living as well as a high public education level, and has also one of the world's highest life expectancies. France has been listed as the world's "best overall health care" provider by the World Health Organization. It is the most visited country in the world, receiving 82 million foreign tourists annually.
France has the world's fourth largest nominal military budget, the third largest military in NATO and EU's largest army. France also possesses the third largest nuclear weapons stockpile in the world-with ~300 active warheads as of 25 May 2010- and the world's second largest diplomatic corps (only second to the one of the United States).
France is a founding member of the United Nations, one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, and a member of the Francophonie, the G8, G20, NATO, OECD, WTO, and the Latin Union. It is also a founding and leading member state of the European Union and the largest one by area. In 2010, France was listed 14th on the Human Development Index and 24th on the Corruption Perceptions Index.
With 81.9 million foreign tourists in 2007, France is ranked as the first tourist destination in the world, ahead of Spain (58.5 million in 2006) and the United States (51.1 million in 2006). This 81.9 million figure excludes people staying less than 24 hours in France, such as Northern Europeans crossing France on their way to Spain or Italy during the summer.
The Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most visited sites of France
France features cities of high cultural interest, beaches and seaside resorts, ski resorts, and rural regions that many enjoy for their beauty and tranquillity (green tourism). Small and picturesque French villages of quality heritage are promoted through the association Les Plus Beaux Villages de France . The "Remarkable Gardens" label is a list of the over two hundred gardens classified by the French Ministry of Culture. This label is intended to protect and promote remarkable gardens and parks. France also attracts many religious pilgrims on their way to St. James, or to Lourdes, a town in the Hautes-Pyrénées that hosts a few million visitors a year.
France, and especially Paris, have some of the world's largest and renowned museums, including the Louvre, which is the most visited art museum in the world, but also the Musée d'Orsay, mostly devoted to impressionism, and Beaubourg, dedicated to Contemporary art.
The Château de Chambord is one of the many French royal residences of the Loire Valley.
Disneyland Paris is France's and indeed Europe's most popular theme park, with 15,405,000 combined visitors to the resort's Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park in 2009. The historical theme park Puy du Fou in Vendée is the second most visited park of France. Other popular theme parks are the Futuroscope of Poitiers and the Parc Astérix.
With more than 10 millions tourists a year, the French Riviera (or Côte d'Azur), in south-eastern France, is the second leading tourist destination in the country, after the Parisian region. According to the Côte d'Azur Economic Development Agency, it benefits from 300 days of sunshine per year, 115 kilometres of coastline and beaches, 18 golf courses, 14 ski resorts and 3,000 restaurants. Each year the Côte d'Azur hosts 50% of the world's superyacht fleet, with 90% of all superyachts visiting the region's coast at least once in their lifetime.
An other major destination are the Châteaux of the Loire Valley, this World Heritage Site is noteworthy for the quality of its architectural heritage, in its historic towns such as Amboise, Angers, Blois, Chinon, Nantes, Orléans, Saumur, and Tours, but in particular for its castles (châteaux), such as the Châteaux d'Amboise, de Chambord, d'Ussé, de Villandry and Chenonceau, which illustrate to an exceptional degree the ideals of the French Renaissance.
The most popular tourist sites in France:
Paris
Corsica
Brittany
Normandy
Rhone-Alps
 Cannes

Tourist Attractions in Corsica




There are a number of tourist attractions in Corsica, which reminds one the rich history and the cultural heritage of France. One can find a large number of museums, cathedrals, castles, historic villas, gardens and a host of natural wonders in this Mediterranean Island.
Firstly, Corsica is known for its white sandy beaches and rugged mountains. One can also find a number of forests, nature parks and marine reserves in this island. One can see a large number of sea turtles i8n the marine reserve in Bonifacio, a small village in this island. Then there is the Valdo Niello Forest where one can get to see different kinds of birds, animals and plants. Monte Cinto, the highest mountain in Corsica, is found over and is also a popular tourist attraction of the island.
There are a large number of museums in Corsica, which are worth a visit. One can check out the paintings, sculptures and other art works in the Fesch Museum, Musee de la Corse, Museum of Corsica and others. One can take a look at the ancient costumes of Corsica in the Costume Museum or admire the archaeological and prehistoric articles kept in The Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum of Levie. Other popular and famous museum of the country is the Napoleonic Museum, where the articles used by the Bonaparte family is displayed.

One can also find numerous castles and chateaus in Corsica, which act as major Tourist Attractions in Corsica. These castles, forts, palaces and chateaus are the symbols of France's rich history. Some of the popular ones include Fesch Palace in Ajaccio, Balagne in Ile Rouse and others. These palaces and chateaus are known for their grandeur and opulence and house the furniture and other articles used by the French aristocracy.

Apart from these, the historic towns and cities of the island are also some of the major Tourist Attractions in Corsica in France. Some of the places worth visiting include Filitosa, Nonza, Sartene, St. Florent, Propriano, Vezzani, Cap Corsi, Calvi, Centuri and others. Besides these, other Tourist Attractions in Corsica island include the Old Town in Bastia, the Gorges de la Restonica, the Place St. Nicholas in Bastia, Bay of Porto and others.

The innumerable Tourist Attractions in Corsica are worth a visit and one can have a great time exploring and visiting the forests, mountains, museums and castles found on this fantastic island.

Tourist Attractions in Brittany

There are a large number of Tourist attractions in Brittany in France. The region is not only filled with a large number of historical monuments and exquisite architectural buildings, but one can also find a large number of parks, lush green forests, exotic beaches and beautiful landscapes, which makes it's a popular tourist destination of the country.




Speaking of historical monuments, well, one can find a large number of chateaus, churches, cathedrals, castles and other buildings in this most fabulous region of the country. Most of these tourist spots are located in Brest, Saint Malo, Brittany, Vannes, Rennes, Quimper, Dinan, Pont-Aven, Carnac and others. Some of the most famous religious buildings of this region include Saint Pierre Cathedral in Vannes, St. Corentin Cathedral in Quimper, Basilique Saint Sauveur in Dinan and others.
There are a large number of historical buildings also in this part of the country. There are a large number of castles and forts over here like Fort National, La Bourbansai Castle and others. One can also pay a visit to the numerous chateaus for which this region is famous. Some of the popular chateaus include Saint Malo Chateau, Chateau de Combourg in Brittany, Chateau de Vitre and others. Other popular historical tourist attractions of this region include Menhirs, Place Henri IV, Cairn du Bernenez, Ile du Grand Be and others.
Brittany is also known for its extensive forest area and natural wonders. Tourists can go for a trip to the Quenecan Forest, Le Foret de Paimpont, Broceliande and others. Besides these, one can also check out the islands located close to this region. Some of the popular islands, which are worth visiting, include Ile de Sein, Ile d'Ouessant and others.
Apart from these, other tourist attractions in Brittany include a large number of museums and art galleries. One can check out the fantastic paintings of great painters of the country in the Musee des Beaux Arts in Quimper or the Musee Municipal in Pont Aven. The Musee du Chateau in Saint Malo is one of the most famous historical museums of this little coastal city of France. The region is home to the Oceanopolis, the largest open-air aquarium of Europe. Another aquarium that one can visit is the Grand Aquarium in Saint Malo.
Besides these, the other tourist attractions in Brittany, which one can visit when on a holiday to this country, include Earthenware Museum, Port Museum, Great Lighthouse, Guehenno walking area, Odet River, Bay of Lannion, Les Thermes Marines Spa and others.

Tourist Attractions in Normandy

Normandy, one of the most historical and beautiful regions of the country, is home to a large number of historical sites, parks, gardens and other monuments, which attracts tourists to this part of the country all through then year. The various tourist attractions in Normandy are the symbol of France's rich cultural and historical heritage.



The various tourist attractions in Normandy can be classified into religious sites, ancient monuments, museums, gardens, parks and natural wonders. Speaking of the religious sites, one can find a large number of churches and chapels in Normandy. These buildings are examples of ancient gothic and Romanesque architecture and are thus worth visiting. Some of the popular religious sites include Abbaye du Mont Saint Michael, Eglise St. Ouen, Abbaye de Jumieges, Eglise Jeanne d'Arc and others. One can also check out the cemeteries like the American Cemetery and the British war Cemetery.
There are innumerable historical sites in Normandy, which reminds one of France's rich and aristocratic history. One can find a large number of ancient villas, chateaus, castles, forts and other buildings, which are known for their grandeur and architectural marvel. Some of the popular historic sites that one can find over here include Chateau Gaillard, Pointe du Hoc, Benedictine Palace, Claude Monet's House and Gardens, Satie House and Museum, Chateau de Pirou and many others.
The tourist attractions in Normandy also include a large number of museums and art galleries. France is known for its art and culture and the best place to get a glimpse of the same is by paying a visit to the museums and galleries. Some of the famous museums found in Normandy include the American Museum, Museum of Bayeux Tapestry, Museum of the Battle of Normandy, Peace Museum, Musee Baron Gerard, Normandy Museum and others.

Apart from these, the tourists can also check out the numerous parks, gardens and beaches found over here. Once can go for a stroll or check out the flowers and fountains in the garden of Musee Christian Dior or in the Jardin des plantes de Coutances and others. Some of the popular beaches that one can find over here include the Omaha Beach, Utah Beach and the Sword Beach. Naturospace in Honfleur is a nature park where one can see different species of butterflies and different types of tropical trees. Besides these, there are a number of natural wonders also in Normandy, which the tourists can check out. The most popular ones include the Roumare Forest and the Rue du Gros Horloge.

Tourist Attractions in Rhone-Alps

The tourist attractions in Rhone-Alps region mainly consist of the mountains, landscapes, rivers and the forests. The entire region is known for its natural beauty, which attracts tourists to this place all through the year.




The biggest attraction of this region is the majestic Alps. One can go for trekking over here or check out the wildlife in this place. Mount Blanc is the highest peak of the country and is one of the most famous tourist spots of the country. The River Rhone is also a major attraction. One can walk past the clear waters of the river or follow its course through the lush green forests of this region. One can also pay a visit to the beautiful River Annecy also.

There are a number of historical monuments also in this region which one cab visit. The historical sites are mostly located in the ancient cities and towns of Lyon, Grenoble, Chamonix and others. There are a number of museums and architectural monuments and buildings that one can explore. As far as the museums are concerned, one can check out the paintings and drawings in the Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée des Tissus and others. Another popular museum is the Puppet Museum and the Museum of Gallo Roman Civilization.

There are a number of churches and cathedrals that one can find over here. These religious buildings are examples of French architecture and the symbol of French culture. Some of the most famous buildings include Cathédrale St-Jean, Abbaye De Saint Chef and others.

Besides these, there are a number of forts, castles and chateaus which re worth visiting. Some of the popular buildings include Chateau De Septeme, Fort Barraux, Fort Du Saint Eynard, Basilique de Notre Dame de Fourvière and others. One of the biggest tourist attractions of the Rhone-Alps region is the Horloge Sonaire. This is a sundial, which was built in the 17th century, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions situated in Grenoble.

Tourist Attractions in Paris

Paris, one of the most fashionable and historic cities of France, is a major tourist destination. There are a large number of tourist attractions in Paris, which attracts millions of tourist tom this city every year.



Paris is home to the famous Eiffel Tower. This tower was built in the year 1889 to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution. This architectural marvel is 300 meters high and is one of the 'Seven Wonders of the World'. The tower has three platforms which houses a restaurant, a gift shop and a souvenir shop. The tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city from its topmost point.
One can also find a number of museums and art galleries in Paris. Each of the museums houses the paintings of some of the greatest and master painters of France. These museums are known for their architectural beauty. One can find numerous sculptures and paintings dating back to the renaissance and Romanesque periods. Some of the most popular museums include Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, Rodin Museum, Jacquemart-Andre Museum, Picasso Museum and others.
The city is also home to a number of religious monuments and buildings. One can find a large number of magnificent cathedrals and churches, which are startling examples of ancient gothic architecture. Some of the most famous cathedrals that double up as important tourist attractions of Paris include the Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte Chapelle, Basilique de St. Denis, St. Germain des Pres and others.
The city of Paris is also known for its magnificent gardens and parks. One can go for a stroll in these parks and check out the beautiful cherry trees and other types of trees found over here. Some of the gardens also have a number of magnificent fountains and are also decorated with beautiful sculptures. Some of the gardens and parks worth visiting include Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries Garden, Jardin des Plantes, Parc Monceau, Andre-Citroen Park, The Promenade Plantee and others. Paris is also home to the famous Disneyland Paris amusement park. Both the young and the old can have great fun going on the joy rides in this park.

Besides these, there are a large number of other monuments and historical sites that one can pay a visit too when on a tour to Paris. Some of the most famous tourist spots of Paris include the Arc de Triomphe, Arche de la Defense, Place de la Bastille, The Catacombs, Pantheon, Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte and others. Besides these, one can also take a walk or pay a visit to some of the most popular public areas of the city. There are a large number of avenues and streets in Paris, which are dotted with palm trees and a large number of cafes, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and a speciality shops. Some of these famous public areas are the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Place Vendome, Place Dauphine, Place de l'Hotel de Ville and others.

Tourist Attractions in Cannes

There are a number of tourist attractions in the fashionable city of Cannes in France. A visit to the tourist attractions in Cannes will surely make your vacations a fun filled and adventurous one.



There are a large number of ancient monuments and religious sites in Cannes, which are worth a visit. These monuments and buildings are fine examples of ancient French architecture belonging to the Romanesque and the Gothic periods. The Eglise Reformee de France is one such fantastic religious site found in Cannes. The Notre-Dame de Bon Voyage is one of the most important and fantastic looking churches of the city.
Apart from this, one can also pay a visit to the numerous museums and galleries of the city. These museums are home to some of the most famous art works and paintings of the country. Some of the famous museums that one can visit over here include the Castre Museum, Musee de la Mer, Galerie de France, Aquarella, Galerie Alexandre Leadouze and others. A very famous and unique museum of the city is the Musee de I'Automobile or the Automobile Museum.
There are a number of parks and gardens, which are also the major tourist attractions of Cannes. One can go for walks in these parks and check out the fountains over there. Some of the gardens are decorated with a large number of sculptures also. The most famous park of the city that is worth visiting is the Parc Phoenix or Phoenix Park. This is a botanical park where one can get to see different kinds of plants and animals. Cannes is also known for its natural beauty and fantastic beaches. There are numerous beaches in Cannes where the tourists can go and have a good time. The beaches in La Croisette are the most popular. One can sun bathe hear or simply suit under the shade of the palm trees and watch the breathtaking view of the setting sun. The Promenade La Croisette is a famous area. With the beach on one side and a large number of cafes and shops on the other, this place Is a favorite destination amongst the tourists.
Apart from these, there are a host of other tourist attractions in Cannes, which consists of historical sites, ancient towns and buildings. Te other tourist attraction of the city include the Le Suquet or Old Town, Palais des Festivals, Massif de l'Esterel, St. Marguerite Island and St Honorat Island, Iles de Lerins, Rue Meynadier, Villas of Cannes and others.